Story Title: Under the Stars
Summary: Modern AU, a camping trip in Colorado ends up being more than originally planned. Four chapters total.
Chapter 4: Under The Stars ~ Day four
*Jon POV*
"Rise and shine! Time to wake up!" Sam yells from what I can only guess is his tent. I groan at the sound of his cheerful voice, which is an annoying way to be woken up. I keep my eyes closed, hoping this is just a dream and that I really have a good hour or two of sleep left.
My body responds to her before my brain does. I feel Dany lying against me, which immediately makes me excited. Very excited. I feel a pull in my stomach as I bite my lip to swallow my groan.
My eyes pop open to look, immediately confirming that Dany's lithe figure is pressed firmly against me as we are wrapped in each other's arms. Her leg is thrown over my hip, and my hand rests on her upper thigh. One of her arms is wrapped around me, slipping up the back of my shirt and resting directly on my back.
I'm overcome by desire, even though I know I shouldn't be. What I didn't anticipate was a sleeping Dany, adorable drool on her chin and all, pressing her entire body closer to me as she mumbles in her sleep. Oh shit, I feel her core press directly against me as I gasp loudly. I try desperately to untangle myself.
Although not by design, I feel as though I'm taking advantage of her in some way - which is an awful feeling.
Sam is now standing just yards from our tent as he makes his rounds to wake our entire group. His booming voice is close enough to wake Dany this time.
"It's the big day, happy Fourth of July!" Sam calls. "The storm rolled out last night, we are good to do the Ouzel Falls hike. Let's go, let's go!"
Her eyes pop open immediately, taking in our positions. I'm sure she feels my large excitement as well, when her eyes widen and she quickly joins me in untangling herself. Her cheeks are flaming red as her mouth falls open in shock.
Embarrassed I look away because this is not what I wanted. Not even close.
We manage to separate and move to our respective sides of the sleeping bag. For the record, Dany was all the way on my side. I'm just saying.
She sees my face, which must reflect the absolute horror that I feel, and then she releases her breath and smiles bashfully.
"Let's never discuss this moment again, deal?" Dany mumbles and laughs nervously.
"What moment? I have no idea what you're talking about," I say awkwardly, trying to break the tension with humor.
Then Dany surprises me. She gently cups my face and smiles.
"I'm sorry, I was on your side of the sleeping bag," Dany says. "Forgive me?"
I place my hand over hers, and her violet eyes burn into me, watching every move I make. I slide her hand across my jaw until her palm is over my mouth, and I kiss the inside of her hand. Dany bites her lower lip as she gives me a small smile.
"Only if you forgive me too?" I throw back to her with a playful smirk.
We both grin and laugh, the awkwardness immediately behind us.
++o++
"What else can I do?" I ask Dany while beating the next batch of scrambled eggs. She insists on making breakfast for everyone this morning, and I insist that I will serve as her sous-chef. Jamie points out he hasn't had a turn cooking and offers to assist Dany instead. I give him a pointed look, and he immediately announces he will take dinner.
Dany chuckles when I tell her this is the one time I'm giving her permission to boss me around.
"Good to know," Dany smirks, while placing strips of bacon on the non-stick pan. Our group brought two camping stoves. I'm impressed as Dany skillfully manages to have numerous plates of food cooking at once.
"The trick is to time it correctly, you are hosed if everything is ready at the same time," she explains. "Something will end up burning." She asks me to hold off on turning on the stove for the bacon.
Dany and I share a piece of toast to hold us over because the first few batches of food are for our friends. We'll eat last. I feed her the toast while she is cooking, and she blushes. I resist dragging her to my tent like a caveman.
Using my thumb, I wipe toast crumbs off the corner of her mouth as she grins at me. I notice that Sam and Gilly are watching every single move and smiling. Good grief, does Gilly actually have happy tears in her eyes? Because that wouldn't freak Dany out. I discreetly motion the universal 'knock it off' sign at them. Sam motions for me to grab Dany and kiss her. Sam demonstrates by kissing Gilly, as though I am an idiot.
"I'm completely stoked that storm rolled out, a perfect day for Ouzel Falls," Tyrion smiles. "Make sure you wear your suits for our hike out, there will be nowhere private to change once we leave camp."
"Suits?" Dany asks.
"Of course, the best part of this strenuous hike to the falls is swimming," Jamie says enthusiastically. "After our swim we'll eat lunch while we dry off and rest. The hike down is also difficult because so steep."
"I don't have a suit, but I'll just dip my feet in," Dany shrugs and smiles. "I can be towel girl or something."
Sam finds this hilarious. I have noticed that even when I am not within talking distance that all of my friends genuinely seem to like Dany. She's a great girl, so I can't blame them. Part of me wonders if after this trip she will still be in my life.
I need to talk to her.
Shae offers to let Dany wear her extra bathing suit, and I smile at her thankfully.
"Come on, Dany," Shae says. "I need to run to my tent for a minute. You can change now. Jamie, please take over for Dany until we return."
Tyrion watches the girls walk off and then pats me on the back in a good-humored way.
"You are so welcome, my man!" he smirks.
"For what?" I demand.
"You'll see," he laughs.
I'm not quite sure what he's getting at, so I just nod and turn my attention back to the food. I lower the heat a little, not being as skilled as Dany in the cooking department.
Jamie offers me help, but I wave him away. I'm sure Dany will be back soon and I lowered the heat. The remaining campers are getting hungry. I eye the toast and consider having another slice that I can split when she gets back. I decide against it. I'll save the toast for my eggs.
Dany walks back, and I immediately notice she seems uncomfortable. She forces a smile and quickly assesses the food being cooked. She plays with the burners to get us back on track.
"Everything okay?" I whisper, as I place my hand on her lower back.
She looks up at me and smiles, her cheeks flushing red.
She nods her head as to motion not a big deal, "It's just that Shae's bathing suit is more like dental floss with a small amount of fabric," she whispers.
My mouth falls open, and I feel all the blood rush to my lower anatomy. Before I can stop myself, my eyes lower to her lovely rack, which I've been discreetly admiring all weekend long. This time there was nothing subtle about it.
"Jon!" Dany hisses, glaring at me. She punches me in the arm playfully. I can tell she isn't that mad.
"I'm sorry," I laugh. "But in my defense that was a very detailed image and provocative description,"
Dany laughs, too. I pull her into my arms.
"Do you forgive me?" I plead.
She bites her lip, which in itself drives me insane with need, and we stare at each other. She slowly glides her hands up my chest and wraps her arms around my neck.
"I'll decide later," she says with a playful smirk.
I pull her even closer to me, "Oh, yeah?" I lean closer and whisper.
She quickly gulps, as though needing to calm herself. Could she want me, as much as I want her?
"Our eggs are going to burn," Jamie yells. "I need a good breakfast for this hike. Cook or give me the spatula."
Dany and I jump apart, our faces now beet red. Our friends laugh, Jamie is the only one not amused. He huffs while checking the food for himself. He is a cranky little bitch when hungry, but I'm used to it.
We resume cooking - the moment has passed, as we just smile at each other.
++o++
"According to my map we are halfway to the big waterfall, but we can sit for a minute and rest if you guys want," Tyrion offers.
"Yes, please!" Shae and Gilly say in unison.
I left Ghost with Dickon and his friends today. We didn't want to risk this hike being too much for the dog. I glance over at Dany, and I'm impressed at how fit she is. I forgot that the day we drove up and set up camp, she was hiking away from those assholes for many hours. I open my canteen and offer her a drink first. Dany and I packed our backpacks as a couple. I'm carrying our water, and she has our food. It's what the other couples are doing for today's hike.
More than anything I want us to actually be a couple.
The hike so far has had some strenuous parts. Several times, I held Dany's hand to help pull her up a deep incline. My face warms remembering that we'd held hands longer than necessary - often with our fingers intertwined. This can't all be in my mind.
I glance at her, and she is smiling and talking to Tyrion and Shae. They are explaining how they met. Tyrion snidely comments that meeting Shae was the one redeemable thing he could say about my ex, Ygritte. Dany'sbrow furrows. Maybe she is caught off guard by Tyrion's strong feelings.
Tyrion detested my ex-girlfriend, but he can admit he only met Shae because of her. Last semester Ygritte and Shae worked together in a bar near campus. Tyrion and I were on our way to dinner, and I made him come with me to say hi to Ygritte. The rest is history.
"Would you like some trail mix?" Dany offers as she scoots closer to me.
"I'll have anything you are offering," I smile at Dany, trying to flirt. She gives me a handful of trail mix without noticing.
Okay, I need to work on my flirting skills. Where the hell is Tyrion to coach me? I think about how I've never had to pursue a woman before. Before Dany, it's always been so easy.
Maybe too easy.
"So, did any of your friends like Ygritte?" Dany asks quietly as her eyes meet mine. She seems curious, but not upset in any way.
"That's a hard question to answer." I say honestly, pausing to organize my thoughts.
Dany nods and looks away.
I've noticed that she doesn't push me for information or details. She did the same thing when she saw my reaction to having my shirt off. I know she cares, but she won't demand information that I'm not willing to give.
I also know that if I want a chance with her I have to be open and honest. I want a good relationship. I trust her. She deserves to be able to trust me as well.
"Ygritte is not an awful person, she really isn't," I admit slowly. "And if I'm honest with myself...I could have been a better boyfriend, had I wanted to be."
Dany's eyes dart over, meeting mine as we stare at each other.
"Ygritte was my girlfriend, but I never imagined a future with her. Ever," I continue. "She was a really aggressive person. She was just the girl that pursued me at the right moment, and it worked out. She and I were on the same page for a long time. We were in a committed relationship, but just a casual and fun thing. One day to the next, she decided that she wanted to be married, and expected me to go along with her change of plans."
Dany nods with understanding, and she gives me a small smile.
"Did she know how popular you were with your students?" Dany asks pointedly.
"She did," I frown at the memory. "To be honest some of her own friends made passes at me. Obviously they weren't true friends to begin with."
"It must've been hard on her, knowing that other women are hitting on you left and right," Dany insists. "Offering you sex after a three minute conversation."
I hear the uncertainty and reservation in Dany'svoice. I remember telling her that I had only had a three minute conversation with Melisande the day before our run in at the showers. I don't think we're talking about Ygritte anymore.
I feel dread. I don't like where this conversation is going. But I have to be honest, it's all I can do. I just got away from a demanding and conniving girlfriend. Now I need honesty across the board.
I pause to calm down, I feel like I am on a job interview. I hate that Dany sees me as some asshole that has women throwing themselves at me all the time. But I also know it's true.
"Dany, Ygritte was not fazed at all about the students or even her lame friends," I say. "She was confident in herself. More importantly - she trusted me."
Moments of silence pass. Neither of us say anything as we drink water from the canteen.
Then suddenly it's as though a decision is made in Dany'smind. Shrugging, she smiles brightly at me.
"That's great Jon," she laughs halfheartedly. "You're right, there are girls out there that wouldn't be bothered at all. That is so not me! It would drive me insane to have a boyfriend where I had to beat girls off with a stick. I'd be miserable."
Dany hops up and offers to pick up the trash from the group as she did after yesterday's lunch. I stay seated and frown.
Why do I feel like I was just dismissed? Like it was Dany's way of telling me that we won't be dating?
Because that's exactly what she means, dummy.
We get up and continue our hike to Ouzel Falls. We come across several smaller falls and cascades that only motivate us to keep going.
Tackling one especially steep part of the terrain, we all work together to help whomever needs assistance. Jamie and Brienne are pretty badass and can do it alone because of their tall height, both are skilled enough of hikers to help the others. Jamie and I help Shae, and then I help pull Dany up, and I pull her into my arms.
"Thanks, Jon!" she says quickly while squirming to put distance between us. "You should help Jamie with Gilly, she seemed nervous about this part."
I nod carefully, watching as Dany gives me a small smile and then turns and walks away. I stand there and frown gloomily.
Once we keep moving, I notice that Gilly and Brienne link arms with Dany and enjoy an easier part of the hike.
"What happened with Dany?" Sam asks quietly so no can hear us.
"What do you mean?" I snap.
Sam rolls his eyes at me.
"Don't play dumb or get all brooding with me. At breakfast she was two steps away from jumping in your arms and sucking your face off," Sam says. "And now, she is treating you as if you are her older brother or something."
I frown, the ache in my chest is painful because he's right. She is treating me like I have been sent to the "friend zone," a guy's worst nightmare when he is pursuing a girl.
"Look, Jon," Sam says. "I've been your friend for years now. I've always enjoyed the comical aspect to your dating life. Seeing which sexy pushy girl happened to pounce on you at the right time. Don't get me wrong, it has been fun and comical to watch."
I roll my eyes, so glad my dating adventures have been a source of entertainment for my friend.
"But this isn't funny," Sam says softly. "Dany is an amazing girl, I've never seen you light up with anyone else the way you do with her. Jamie and Brienne have a lot of good things to say and they've known her since freshman year. I just don't want to see you blow it." I hear the concern in his voice.
I already have, but it's not my fault!
"Sam, it's complicated," I growl. "Dany isn't into me. She basically just told me that she couldn't handle dating someone with the constant pressure of other girls. It's not like I ask for it!"
"First, lower your voice. Second, you're acting like a damn blind fool," Sam admonishes me, his tone as sharp as nails. My frown deepens, I'm not used to Sam being so blunt.
I frown and shake my head. What does he want me to do?
"Let me remind you, this is the same girl that you have been thinking about for almost a year," Sam points out. "You know she is special, you told me you saw it right away. Remember?"
I nod, admitting how I've felt for a long time.
"I care about you. I hope you know that you deserve good in your life. Your stepmother is a cruel person, you didn't deserve the cards you were dealt. That shit is on her. Don't let her ugliness tear you down anymore," Sam finishes softly.
I lower my eyes and nod. Sam's right. I often doubt myself, which is probably one of the reasons I've never pursued someone that I really wanted to date. I've just been snapped up by the wrong girls.
I turn to watch Dany walking with Gilly and Brienne. Dany is talking animatedly and gesturing. Brienne is hysterically laughing while Gilly's mouth hangs open. I catch enough words to guess the story is about their freshman year in the dorms.
I smile watching them, Dany is gorgeous, funny and kind. No one has ever made me feel the way she does.
I'm not giving up on Dany without a fight.
++o++
Ouzel Falls is breathtaking, the drop more than forty feet through a sliver in the dark rock wall surrounding it. The water flows into a pool filled with boulders and fallen trees. There are small pools of water that are calm and perfect for wading.
The storm that rolled through last night must have scared other hikers away. Our group is the only one up here. It is very hot and sunny today, just what you would expect in early July.
We pick a spot where the huge boulders are flat. The boulders make a perfect place to set down our gear and have lunch after we explore the falls. Our group brought up two sunblock tubes to share. I grab one tube and slip my hand into Dany's hand. I pull her aside so we can help each other. She smiles at me and follows.
I am wearing a rash guard shirt that protects me from the sun while also covering my chest and back. I still need help applying sunblock to the back of my neck so I ask Dany. She also does my face, and she is very careful not to get any sunblock in my eyes. She bites her lip while applying it. I reach out and place my hands gently on her waist. Her mouth falls open for a moment, but I just smile at her innocently. She gulps and then moves on to put sunblock on the tops of my ears.
"Okay, your turn, Dany." I say and wait for her to slip out of her shirt and shorts.
Dany slides her shorts down, and then pauses for a moment before taking her shirt off, blushing furiously. She wasn't kidding, it is the sexiest bathing suit I've ever seen. Dany holds her shirt to her chest and looks away from me.
"Just put lotion on my back and shoulders please," she squeaks while frowning and turning her chest away from me.
I can see how uncomfortable she is, and it's more of a modesty issue. I slather my hands with sunblock and thoroughly run my hands over her shoulders and then down her back. I also do the back of her arms and pull her closer to me.
I add more lotion to my hand and do the back of her neck, while also working out any kinks in her shoulders.
I lean over and whisper in her ear. "Dany, you are so beautiful," I say. "Stunning...you have nothing to be embarrassed about."
Dany turns her head to meet me gaze and smiles. "Thank you, Jon," she replies.
She instantly seems to relax and tosses the shirt she had been carrying with her pile of stuff.
My talk with Sam runs through my mind, I need to convince her that I am the right guy for her. I know it. I know it as much as I know she is the right girl for me.
The water pools are magnificent, and we all go for a swim.
The girls are being especially silly and happy. I feel a twinge of envy at how affectionate Gilly is with Sam. Gilly and Sam are like family to me, and I feel a twinge of sadness because I'm desperate to be close to Dany.
Brienne insists on taking photos from outside the pools, due to the whole iPhone and water thing not being a good idea. Gilly agrees to switch with Brienne after so she can be in the pictures too.
I pull Dany into my arms so Gilly can get a picture of us in the water. Dany blushes but wraps her arms around me. It's a wonderful excuse to hold her close to me. After I tease Dany, asking if she is tired and needs me to carry her again. I offer to let her hold onto my back while I swim.
"Like a baby monkey?" she scowls and laughs at the same time. "No thank you, Jon."
"I was thinking more honeymoon and past the threshold," I joke and gently cup her face, brushing my thumb across her lips.
For the first time in my entire life, the idea of marriage crosses my mind. I can actually picture myself having forever with her. I get lost in my own thoughts for a moment.
Dany is watching me intently, so I snap out of it and smile at her. That would be a great way for me to scare the crap out of her. I will keep these thoughts to myself.
The girls play 'model' while the guys do some laps - and race, of course.
Playing photographer, Tyrion is making the 'models' take turns, Shae is laughing hysterically at how bossy he is. Tyrion may have found the perfect woman as well.
Striking a pose for the camera, Dany wades over to stand in front of the falls. She is laughing as she poses with her arms outstretched. The water reaches her lower waist right below the start of her bikini bottom, and her long hair flows down her back. I breathe in and out to calm myself. I am getting excited just looking at her.
What the hell is wrong with me? I am acting like a horny sixteen year old! But I know the answer, it's her. I'm crazy about her in every way.
Sam notices her too, leaning over to me he whispers."You are so very lucky there are no other single guys in this group," Sam says. "They would be going nuts for a chance with Dany. Jon, you better figure your issues out...and soon."
"I know, I've just got to convince her," I say with determination.
Sam smiles and lets me know that he and Gilly are ready to help in any way they can. They are good friends.
Everyone is having a great time, except for Tyrion. He is peeved no one else wants to play chicken against him and Shae. He tries again to convince Dany to do it, "I know if you tell Jon you want to play, he'll do it. I'm pretty sure he would do anything for you, Dany," Tyrion says innocently, with Shae nodding in agreement.
"Not going to happen, Tyrion. I hate that game. And I am wearing a bikini top that feels ready to fly off my body at any moment," Dany laughs.
"I'm not seeing the issue," Tyrion deadpans as Shae snickers. Her suit is equally revealing.
Dany rolls her eyes, and I've seen enough to want to step into the fray.
"Tyrion, I am going to spend some time alone with Dany. Go away," I smile.
Tyrion waggles his brows at us and then races Shae across the water to give us privacy. I notice he lets her win, and she is ecstatic.
Dany looks at me and smiles, so I pull her close to me in the water. She looks nervous for a moment and then relaxes in my arms.
"I wanted to continue the conversation we were having earlier," I whisper in her ear while holding her close to me.
"Oh?" Dany mumbles sheepishly, with her fingertips resting lightly on my shoulders.
"Yes," I say seriously, staring into her eyes. She nods in agreement. "You know, I'm just a normal guy. The truth is, it doesn't matter to me how many girls flirt or offer it up. I am trustworthy and loyal. I would never hurt you in that way."
I pause while searching her face for a reaction. She is listening to every word, with her eyes studying mine intently.
"I also have one key clarification from our conversation earlier," I lean my forehead against hers before continuing. "If you were my girlfriend, you wouldn't have to beat other girls off with a stick alone. I'd be right there helping as well."
Dany bites her lip and then giggles softly. Her hands move from my shoulder to wrap around my neck, as she pulls me closer to give me a kiss on the cheek.
We end up splashing around and enjoying a swim, Dany tries unsuccessfully to "drown me," but is unable to push me under the water, even when jumping on my back and trying. I greatly enjoy her numerous attempts, but I finally pull her close to me.
"Come here, no more drowning attempts. There are much better ways for us to exert energy," I smirks at her seductively.
Her eyes light up with delight as we embrace and hold one another closely. We share a smile before I gently plant a kiss where her shoulder and neck meet. I quickly realize it's a ticklish spot. Dany squirms in my arms but doesn't break away.
Her laughter rings in my ear, and it's the best sound.
Her smile falters for a moment as her fingertips tracing the seams of my rash guard.
"Do you wear this because of...what happened with your stepmother growing up?" she murmurs gently.
I gulp, meeting her gaze and nod to confirm her thoughts.
She pulls me even closer, pressing her chest against mine as I really appreciate Shae's tastes in bathing suits.
"I wish you didn't feel that you have to, you are perfect - exactly as you are," Dany assures me, similar to how I persuaded her earlier to be comfortable in the sexy bathing suit.
"If we were alone, I would be comfortable going without the shirt," I assure her while sliding my hand to cradle her face.
Dany and I stare at each other, our eyes alternating between our lips and eyes.
I lick my lower lip nervously, "Maybe one day we can come back here...alone?" I ask her with a small amount of in trepidation.
Dany meets my gaze confidently. "I'd love that, Jon," she responds.
I lean over and press my lips to her mouth lightly. Her body responding to me as she trembles. I think she's as nervous as I am. Each time our lips meet, we both give a little more, until our kisses are passionate and loving as our tongues move in a slow dance. My hands roam up and down her sides and back, the feeling of her bare skin only adding to my excitement. Dany's hands are holding onto my shoulders to keep us close. Her hands occasionally touching my hair.
Our kiss during the dare was really good. This is different because we are kissing because we choose to. This kiss is a promise for what is to come.
"Guys, it's getting late. Let's eat!" Jamie calls out, breaking us from our daze.
We smile and kiss one last time before looking around. To everyone's credit, no one is looking anywhere near our direction, giving us a small sense of privacy.
"Tonight, when we are able to be alone, I want to talk more about us, okay?" I ask Dany and smile sheepishly. I want to make us official, but it's also a conversation I want to have when we are alone.
"Yes, definitely," Dany smiles.
We swim over to the rocks and get out of the water; Dany and I had agreed to share a towel so we wouldn't need two. I let her dry off first, of course, forcing myself to look away as she does.
"I can't believe our weekend is almost over," Gilly says sadly while giving Sam a back massage.
"Yeah, it will take us even longer to hike down with the incline, we'll probably get back to camp just in time for dinner," Jamie says. He jokingly asks me if I want to be his sous-chef tonight.
I say no while throwing a grape at him, which he skillfully catches in his mouth. The girls laugh at us.
"We have to be completely packed up and out by ten o'clock tomorrow morning. I already checked, another party has rented our site starting tomorrow," Sam instructs. We all agree that packing most of the gear tonight is the way to go.
As our rest time is winding down, and we are mostly dried off, Sam calls me over to show me something. He has his backpack on him. Gilly winks at me while passing me as she walks over to the girls that are looking at their "modeling" pictures on Tyrion's phone and laughing at themselves.
"What's up?" I ask Sam.
"Do you have pockets with a zipper in those cargo shorts?" he asks.
"Um, yeah?"
"Just in case, better safe than sorry. Take a couple of these," Sam says. He slips two foil packages in my hand. "I'm assuming you didn't bring any as you weren't planning on finding your soulmate on this trip," he smiles.
I quickly shove them in my pocket and close the zipper.
"I am pretty sure that is not going to happen tonight; but just in case, it's better to have them and not need them than the other way around. Thanks, buddy," I say.
We all pack up and get ready for the long hike back to camp.
++o++
We are all exhausted as we trudge back to our camp site after using the facilities at the campground entrance. Jamie is trying to convince us that peanut butter and jelly sandwiches would be a much more enjoyable meal than the grilled chicken and corn on the cob we have slated for dinner.
He looks at Dany for back up, but she laughs at him.
"Sorry Jamie, you lost my vote at the threat of taking away corn on the cob," Dany says.
He pouts because if anyone in our group would have given him a pass, it would have been Dany.
With Brienne on his one side, and Dany momentarily walking on his other, he agrees to make the dinner we had planned. Dany is the best cook we have, and she smiles at him and promises to help him cook.
"We'll have it done in no time. You'll see!" Dany promises brightly.
Jamie smiles and announces to us that Dany is the nicest person in our group. He picks her up good-naturedly and twirls her around. Her laughter rings out as she demands he put her down. The rest of us join in her laughter, too.
"Well, isn't this nice. And here I was worried sick about you, Dany," a guy hisses, stepping out from behind the trees at our campsite. A second guy follows behind him, and moves to stand next to him. I recognize Joffrey immediately from class last year. I can only assume the guy who spoke is Drogo.
My jaw clenches as my eyes narrow.
Jamie places Dany down but stands his ground. Dany looks like a deer caught in headlights, her face expressionless although her eyes open wide.
"I mean this is hysterical. We have been frantically looking for you, and all along you are here – living it up with another group," Drogo spits. "I met Dickon, nice kid. He knew right away where you were and with whom. Did you have fun at the falls today, sweetie?"
"Go away, Drogo, we are done," Dany says firmly.
"I'm ready to leave when you are, Dany. I took the liberty of packing your crap," Drogo spits. Drogo has Dany'shiking backpack that had been in my tent along with her rolled up sleeping bag. These little assholes went through our camp's stuff.
"Enough games, let's go," Drogo steps toward Dany as she steps back.
"Drogo, we broke up. I don't even know why you are here. I'm not going anywhere with you," Dany says firmly, her eyes darting between Drogo and Joffrey.
A dark look crosses Drogo's face.
"Imagine my surprise finding your things in some guy's tent. You look really familiar. Do we know each other? Are you Jon?" Drogo snaps while scowling at Jamie, who had been standing next to Dany. All of the gear in my tent is labeled with my name.
"Don't worry about who I am, get the hell out of here. This is our camp site and you are not welcome," Jamie says calmly.
"I'm Jon," I say as I walk over to stand next to Dany. Without caring what this little shit thinks, I slip my hand into hers and squeeze it.
I don't think it even occurred to Drogo that she would move on so quickly. Even with her things in my tent, it isn't uncommon for people to share tents as needed and there was a storm that rolled through last night. A combination of disbelief and rage crosses his face. Even Joffrey behind him looks stunned. Drogo steps closer to us, now standing directly in front of Dany. Jamie and I stand at her sides.
"Are you kidding me, Dany? We have one fight, and this is what you do?" Drogo shouts at her, then turns his attention to me. "Get your damn hands off of my girl."
"She's not your anything," I snap.
"Please, Drogo. Just go," Dany pleads. She looks terribly uncomfortable.
"You damn slut! What happened? You had to try to earn your keep in order to join their camping group? I guess you had to work for your rations like a tramp," Drogo hisses.
It happens so quickly. I reach forward to grab Drogo's shirt with my free hand demanding he apologize to her.
Instinctively, Jamie picks up Dany at the same time and drags both her and Brienne away from Drogo and me.
The next thing I know Drogo sucker punches me in the face. I was not expecting it, and I feel the rush of blood from my nose. The bastard then comes at me again. This time I'm ready and sidestep him. I don't even want to fight him. He's a punk and pissed he lost Dany. I just want him to apologize and get the hell out.
Drogo is enraged, and will not stop. Next thing I know, he has tackled me to the ground. We are rolling around and both throwing punches.
I hear Jamie warn Joffrey to stay out of it, unless he wants to make it a three-on-two fight, meaning that both Jamie and Tyrion would jump in.
The girls are pleading for someone to break it up. This is not how I wanted my relationship with Dany to start.
I finally get Drogo in a headlock and hold him still. "Drogo, enough. This is over. Just get the hell out of here and take Joffrey with you," I command. Drogo is furious that I have the upper hand.
Dany has tears streaming down her face as Gilly and Brienne comfort her, but they look equally distressed.
"Screw this shit!" Drogo scream. "Get the hell off of me."
I sigh while releasing him and stepping away. Drogo isn't badly injured. I made it a point to not hit him hard until I could get him in a headlock and end the fight. After his initial sucker punch, he never got a good hit in either. Until this point, it was more of a ridiculous wrestling match.
Drogo scowls at me and turns to walk away. He takes a couple of steps before stopping in front of Dany and turning back to face me.
"Enjoy this bitch, Jon," Drogo scowls. "You've probably figured this out by now, but Dany is completely frigid. Good luck with that. Hope you enjoyed having some kind of a sex life until now."
Dany gasps, mortified that he would say that in front of everyone. Angry tears fill her eyes.
Drogo frowns at seeing her reaction, and for a moment I think he is going to apologize for hurting her feelings. Instead he roughly grabs her by the arm.
"Enough Dany, let's go. You had your fun, but it's over!" Drogo snaps while yanking her towards him.
Dany gasps sharply as Drogo turns and roughly begins pulling her behind him while he trudges away. Even Joffrey looks stunned.
Drogo stumbles when Dany pulls her arm back. Almost tripping, he pulls Dany down at the same time. Dany's chin hits the corner of the picnic table, and she shrieks in pain.
I don't even hear what Drogo is saying as he leans over to check on her.
I see red. That was the last straw for me. I lunge for Drogo and punch him in the throat. An odd gurgling sound comes out of his mouth. I drag him away from Dany and tackle him to the ground and begin swinging. I don't even register the girls screaming and crying, begging me to stop. Joffrey tries to pull me off, so I punch him once in the nose and he falls back. I'm too enraged to stop.
"Jon, stop! Enough!" Sam shouts. He and Jamie both work together to drag me off of Drogo, who remains on the ground, not moving.
"You bastard, how dare you touch her. I'll kill you!" I grunt while struggling to get back to Drogo.
"Shut your mouth and come with me now!" Sam hollers at me. Sam has me by the shirt collar and is dragging me for a walk towards my tent. I am so mad that I am shaking.
We keep walking, past my tent and then further into the forest.
"What the hell, Jon!" Sam yells. "I was afraid you were going to hurt him to the point of earning yourself some damn jail time. You were out of control, reel it back in."
Dany. I need to see her. I turn around and start walking back to camp.
"No way!" Sam stops me. "You and I are going to keep walking until you calm the hell down. Seriously, stop it. Jamie is with the girls and Dickon's group came running when they heard the girls screaming and crying."
I frown, but nod. Sam is right. I lost control. Sam uses his finger to make a loud whistle, and suddenly Ghost runs to our side.
"Come on Ghost, you can help me calm Jon down...and avoid jail," Sam grumbles as we walk.
++o++
I feel anxious as we walk back towards our camp. I regret leaving Dany behind while Drogo and Joffrey were still there. But I was out of control and holding on by a thread. I trust Jamie and Dickon's group were able to kick them out.
As soon as I step into our shared area by the fire pit, I sense something is wrong. The girls have a look of dread on their faces. I scan quickly in search of Dany, but she is nowhere to be found.
"Where's Dany?" I immediately ask.
"Jon, why don't you sit down? Let's get you some ice for those hands," Gilly offers.
I frown, looking around again.
"Seriously, where is Dany?" I repeat.
"Jon, she was upset," Gilly sighs. "The whole fight was so violent. It was just an ugly situation."
"Gilly," I warn. I need to her to spit it out.
"Look, all we know is that she picked up her camping gear and left," Gilly says. "They sent a ranger over to take Drogo to the infirmary. Dany didn't say a word to any of us. Even when we tried to talk to her, she begged us to leave her alone." I see that it pains her to tell me this.
Dany is gone?
"Well look who's back from his anger-management walk," Joffrey says snidely.
We all frown as Joffrey enters our camp. He is holding up his hands as if to say that he is not there to fight.
"Believe me, this is the last place I wanted to come back to," Joffrey scowls. "Drogo left his bag with the car keys in it."
Joffrey motions to the tree they stepped out from behind, and he picks up a backpack we can only assume is theirs.
"You know, when you were my teacher last year," Joffrey turns to face me, "I used to think you were so damn smart. But you're an idiot. This is a little game Dany and Drogo play with each other. It makes their love life more exciting. After all that, you don't even get the girl. She's with him again, taking care of his sorry ass like always."
Blood rushes to my face, a sick feeling settling in my stomach.
"I almost forgot," he laughs. "Dany changed clothes at the main entrance, she asked me to bring this back and return to someone named Sandy or Shanna something?"
Shae's eyes widen at seeing her bikini. Dany had been wearing it when we got back from the falls. Joffrey holds it up so that it dangles, smirking at it.
"This is some sexy shit, Shanna," Joffrey says. "Too bad I didn't get a chance to see Dany wearing it. She made me leave the room before she changed. I think she wanted to give Drogo a private show. Those two freaks...always fighting and then making up."
Tyrion snatches the bathing suit out of Joffrey's hands, and then walks Shae back to their tent.
Before I process what Joffrey is saying about Dany, I decide to deal with him first. I step closer to Joffrey.
"You know Joffrey, I wonder what your friend Drogo, or his cousin Margaery, would say if they were to find out how you're always harassing Dany?" I ask him.
Joffrey looks startled.
"And don't forget, as your teacher last semester I saw first-hand how you leered at Dany in my class," I continue. "Your sick game is up. Dany may be too nice to blow you and your bullshit out of the water, but I'm not."
Joffrey looks worried.
"I don't care if Dany marries Drogo tomorrow...you had better leave her the hell alone and knock off your sexual harassment," I tell Joffrey as I step closer. "Do we understand each other?"
"Yes, I understand," he snaps.
Joffrey rolls his eyes. He walks away and then stops one last time.
"Hey Jon, Dany is with Drogo and going to ride back with us," he calls. "Anything you want me to tell her on your behalf?" The smirk on his face is loud and clear. He is taunting me.
"Just get the hell out of here, Joffrey," I snap.
As soon as he is gone, my friends walk over to comfort me, which only makes me feel worse. How could she do this? I'm such a fool.
I'm pissed and heartbroken at the same time. I shake my head and tell the group I need to be alone. They nod in understanding.
I go to my tent and lie down, my heart aching. All of her things gone. I can't believe after all that, she went back to him. Joffrey's words ring in my ear, "This is a little game that Dany and Drogo play with each other."
How could I be so stupid? I was so sure I meant something to her. Bitter tears fill my eyes, but I blink them away. I refuse to cry over her.
The good news...now I know the girl I've been pining for doesn't really exist. Now I can let her go, and be done.
I close my eyes, trying to sleep. Maybe then I can get some reprieve from the sadness I feel.
Sleep doesn't come. Instead conversations, looks, and warm embraces play over and over in my mind. I sit up, struggling to reconcile what I feel for her in my heart with the fact that she left camp, she left me, and with what Joffrey produced as evidence.
I remember the beautiful girl I met in my classes last year. She was always respectful and kind to everyone around her. She was warm and genuine. I think about that day in February when she entered my office. I couldn't help but stare at her because the bright girl I knew from class was shattered and heartbroken. I never touch people, and I don't really like to be touched myself.
I surprised myself when I pulled her into my arms and held her that day. I think I needed her as much as she needed me. Holding her felt so right. We've never talked about that day.
Joffrey is right. I really am an idiot.
A complete idiot to believe a word Joffrey said, an idiot to doubt Dany for even a minute.
I do know her. In fact, I'm crazy about her, unlike anything I've ever felt before.
I allowed my insecurities and jealousy to cloud my judgement for a moment, and I will give Joffrey credit...he was convincing.
I do trust her.
Even if she was worried about Drogo because of the beating I gave him, she would have made sure he was okay, but I know she isn't going back to him.
I jump up from the floor of my tent. I don't know where she went, but I need to find her.
I run out of the tent yelling for my friends to meet me at the fire pit.
"Guys, I don't care what it looks like. Dany would never go back to him. I don't know why she's not here, but I know she cares about me. And I...well, truth is I'm crazy about her. I've got to find her!" I spit out.
I am rewarded with smiles and encouragement. I get my hiking backpack and flashlight, we have a couple of hours before it gets dark, but just in case. Gilly reminds me that Ghost is a great tracking dog. Brienne brings out her bathing suit that Dany was just wearing.
Everyone wishes me luck as I take off in search of Dany.
++o++
I walk towards the main entrance of Aspenglen campgrounds, with Ghost leading the way. I figure I'll check in with the ranger's station first in case they've seen her.
I enter the park ranger offices, glad I caught them right before they closed for the day. I look around the lobby and I see her. Dany is sitting on a bench with her gear at her feet, with her eyes red and puffy from crying. I do a double take because I was not expecting to see her here.
She doesn't notice me. She seems to be lost in thought while staring at the ground. I slowly approach.
"Penny for your thoughts," I say quietly when I am standing next to her.
She gasps and looks up, but the moment our eyes meet, she looks away and sniffles softly.
"Dany, come here. Please. Talk to me," I say. I sit down next to her and pull her into my arms to comfort her.
She pulls away and looks into my eyes.
"Jon, I'm sorry. I ruined everything. All that drama, the things Drogo said, and your fight with him...it scared me how violent you were with Drogo...I just had to get away. I don't think I'm good for you."
"Is that what you think, that you aren't good for me?" I ask incredulously.
"Well, I'm not!" she snaps.
"Dany, I'm sorry...I've never lost control that way. When he had his hands on you, and then you got hurt...I lost control. I'm not proud of it, at all. It is something I am going to work on, I don't want that to ever happen again," I pause to reach over and check her chin, it is badly bruised but the skin didn't break. "I'm sorry I scared you, it won't happen again."
Dany nods, her eyes show understanding and forgiveness.
"Also, Drogo is a jerk and Joffrey too," I say. "But nothing was ruined, especially not by you. It was one bad part of a great camping trip, that's all. No one is upset with you, Dany. In fact everyone was worried you left. Especially since Joffrey came back to camp and told us you had made up with Drogo..." my voice trails off, the pain I felt creeping back to mind.
"What? Joffrey said that?" She looks confused.
"Yeah, he brought back Shae's bikini and told us that you were riding back with them. He told me that you and Drogo always break up and then make up," I finish painfully.
Dany places her hand on my cheek, searching my eyes. I frown because I had been so hurt at the idea of it all just being a sick game. She pulls me close, wrapping her arms around me. I allow myself to enjoy her warmth.
"That must have hurt you; I hate that Joffrey did that. But it's not true, Drogo and I were done before I even ran into you," she states firmly.
Dany looks confused for a moment, as though she is trying to work something out in her head.
"I didn't want to keep Shae's suit so I changed in the bathroom," she explains. "I then asked the woman at the Lost and Found to please deliver it back to your camp tonight. I even told her what lot number it was and watched her write down Shae's name. I do remember Joffrey was in the lobby waiting for Drogo, who was getting medical attention. I didn't even think he saw what I was doing at the Lost and Found. What an ass!"
I laugh with relief. Joffrey is a snake in the grass. We agree he probably offered to make the delivery himself.
I smile and pull her into my arms. She hugs me back.
After some time, the park rangers let us know they are locking up, telling Dany they can give her a ride to Estes Park if she still wants it.
"Dany, don't go. Please," I beg. "Stay with me."
She nods before turning to the ranger.
"Thank you so much, but I won't be needing that ride after all," Dany tells him.
++o++
As we have a couple more hours of light and our gear, we decide to go for a short hike. Before heading out, we see one of Dickon's friends. I ask him to tell Sam and Gilly that I found Dany, and tell them that Dany is safe and with me. He also takes Ghost back to camp. He was one of the boys that ran to our camp during my fight with Drogo. He tells us that he is glad things are settling down.
We walk in comfortable silence while holding hands. I run my fingertips down her palm, and she shivers and smiles. When we get to a pretty spot, I stop and pull her close to me. Dany wraps her arms tightly around me.
"I'm going to kiss you now, I mean really kiss you," I say while pulling her entire body tightly against mine. I feel her shiver in anticipation, her lips parting as her violet eyes stare at my lips.
I press my mouth to hers and immediately push my tongue into her mouth. I kiss her frantically, I need to feel her. I need to show her how much she means to me. One arm on my shoulder and the other gently pulling on the curls at the bottom of my head, Dany appears to be equally desperate for me.
We kiss for what feels like minutes, but the darkness of dusk tells us differently.
"Jon, it's getting dark. We should head back to camp." Dany says slowly, alternating kisses to my lips, neck and cheek in between each word she whispers.
"I did bring a flashlight, so we could stay right here and keep kissing," I say hopefully, although Dany is already shaking her head no.
"I'm also starving, I am guessing there are some peanut butter and jelly sandwiches waiting for us." She giggles while grabbing my hand and leading me back towards camp.
++o++
Everyone was so relieved when I brought Dany back to the camp. She admitted that she felt so bad about what happened with Drogo and that she felt stressed that she may have ruined the trip. The group immediately put her at ease.
I now sit in my camping chair with Dany on my lap. We are sharing s'mores while snuggling. As much as I'm enjoying our last campfire with the group, I am anxious to get Dany back to our tent to be alone.
When no one is looking we steal short kisses and smile at each other. Dany bites her lower lip and leans down to kiss my neck.
"I wish we were alone," Dany whispers. My cheeks flush with excitement, I'm hoping she wants to be alone with me as much as I want to...and for the same reasons.
"Me too. We will be soon," I assure her.
As we are enjoying our beers, we go around and make toasts. When it's Sam's turn, he holds up his beer. He has consumed his fair share of beers tonight.
"I want to make a toast to Dany. I've never seen my best friend as happy and alive as he has been this trip. And let me add," Sam motions with his hands towards me and Dany, "I've never ever seen Jon be so loving and affectionate. Who knew that the same girl that I've been hearing about for almost a year would be the one to join our camping trip? To Dany!" Sam says, his voice full of emotion.
We all take a drink.
"Sam, what did you mean...you've been hearing about me for a year?" Dany asks. She looks genuinely confused.
The entire group is silent, and Sam's eyes widen as he takes a large drink from his beer.
I feel the blood rush to my cheeks as I lean over and kiss Dany on her shoulder. She turns to look at me, her eyebrows raised.
"On that note, I think Dany and I are going to call it a night. I do want to explain everything to her, but I also want to do it in private," I smile as the group laughs.
Sam looks mortified and apologetic.
"It's okay, Sam. I was going to tell her tonight anyway," I say to him.
We say goodnight and then use our lantern to walk to our tent. Dany leans up and kisses my cheek.
"Be ready to explain when we get to the tent," she teases me and then pinches my butt to stress her seriousness.
++o++
Once we are inside the tent, with our shoes kicked off, I pull her into my arms, kissing her forehead.
"I really care about you Dany, and I have for a while. I want you to know the truth," I begin.
She looks at me, confused. I clear my throat nervously.
"I've mentioned you a few times over the last year to Sam," I confess. "I've always felt a connection to you. I would have loved to get to know you better, even as a friend. The truth is, part of me always wanted more from you...since the day I met you."
"Wow...Jon. I'm actually shocked. I had no idea," Dany blushes while examining me. "So, why didn't you try to get to know me better?"
"First, I knew you had a boyfriend, and I was with Ygritte. And second, you were so aloof...I was sure you were not even remotely attracted to me," I mumble.
Dany starts laughing while shaking her head, she sits on the sleeping bag still chuckling.
"Are you kidding? I had a crush on you the moment I laid eyes on you," she says, her eyes bright with excitement. "But in all fairness, I did decide not to think about you that way because so many girls were after you. It was annoying."
Dany explains her visualization exercise that kept her emotions in check. A sixty-year old with eight grandkids, ha!
"Also, right before Ghost and I found you in the woods," I say in a rush, "the group played a game of Never Have I Ever. I admitted having a serious crush on you. Imagine my horror when Jamie and Brienne knew exactly who I was talking about. When I brought you back to camp, everyone knew who you were already. I wasn't sure if they'd play it cool!"
Dany blushes and then moves closer to me. I hold my breath as she pulls me towards her for a kiss.
I cup her face and pull away from her so I can look at her, studying every feature on her face, committing this moment to memory. I have to tell her how I feel. I don't care if it's too fast. It's what my heart is telling me.
"I'm crazy about you...like nothing I've ever felt before," I smile at her nervously. "I've been waiting until the right moment to ask you something."
"The right moment? Ask me what?" she says, smiling too.
"Yeah," I whisper, "and I just don't want to frighten you."
"You can say anything to me. You should know better, Jon," Dany says.
"Fine, then here goes. I really like you, a lot. And I know this is fast, but I really want us to date...exclusively," I tell Dany.
Her eyes light up and a smile breaks out on her face.
"I would like that too, Jon," she whispers.
"Dany, will you be my girlfriend?" I ask hopefully.
"Absolutely, now kiss me," she demands.
"Dany, you are amazing," I whisper, before giving her a kiss.
++o++
We spent hours gently kissing while talking about our lives, holding each other while lying on top of our sleeping bags. It's a much warmer night without the storm.
Our kisses are loving and slow, as I let my hands roam up and down her body. Then Dany pauses and guides my hands under her shirt as I explore her body.
"Dany," I moan her name softly as I discover she isn't wearing a bra. My need for her is overwhelming.
"Jon, I don't want to go too fast - at least not having sex tonight," Dany whispers while resting her forehead to mine.
"Neither do I," I nod in agreement. "I really want this to work. There's no rush. Let's really get to know each other. I want to know every part of you."
"Well, when you say things like that, you make it hard to be wise," Dany giggles before deepening our kiss and rolling onto her back and pulling me with her.
"Dany," I whisper as I situate myself on top of her. I know she can feel how hard my dick is.
With her lips parted and panting, I can see the lust in her eyes. She wraps her legs around me while pulling off my shirt. Her hands touch my chest and then she pulls me close. Dany's hand resting on my back. I lie down, letting her feel exactly what she does to me. She moans with desire upon feeling my body's reaction to her. I softly pull her lower lip with my teeth in a teasing way before kissing her again.
I kiss her jaw, her neck, I slowly kiss behind her ear as she whimpers. My hands explore her perfect breasts as I lower my mouth to her cleavage while moving her shirt down one shoulder. Her moans encourage me on.
Suddenly I feel her tense, a frown appears on her face. I quickly pull her shirt back up her shoulder.
"Dany?" I ask with concern.
"Jon, what Drogo said about me - the frigid thing." Her cheeks get red as she clears her throat. "Drogo and I had a terrible sex life, thanks to the combination of his excessive drinking and me not being happy in the relationship. But...I don't think...I mean..."
"Dany, I wasn't worried for even a second that you and I are going to have any issues in the passion department. I already know how you react to me. When the time comes, when we are both ready...we are going to be together. Don't worry about that, okay?" I assure her.
"And let me assure you, my 'delivery' percentages will meet with your satisfaction," I promise her confidently with a teasing smile.
Her breath hitches before she runs the tip of her tongue across her lips. "I'm going to hold you to that," Dany says excitedly as she pulls her own shirt off with a wicked smile.
She laughs and pulls me in for a kiss.
I then kiss down her neck, stopping to lick her collarbone before kissing further to take her nipple in my mouth. Dany gasps and pulls my hair while still pushing my head closer to her.
I growl when she rocks her hips against me, grinding her core against my almost painfully hard dick. I look up to see her smirk as she enjoys my reaction. I kiss to the underside of her breast and gently bite her, she shudders while gasping loudly.
She rolls us over so that I'm laying on my back, sitting up she smiles down at me. Dany moves to straddle me as I sharply inhale.
I watch as she slowly and tenderly kisses my jaw, neck and then finally painstakingly kissing down my chest and stomach.
"You are absolutely beautiful, Jon," she whispers. "Never forget it."
I nod before quickly flipping her back over as I resume kissing her passionately.
I've never felt as close to someone as I do when in Dany's arms.
++o++
After hours of giving and receiving affection we decide to get ready for sleep.
As we change into our sleepwear and situate our sleeping bags I have an idea.
"What do you think about sleeping by the fire pit. Since it's our last night camping?" I ask.
Her violet eyes light up as she nods enthusiastically.
I quietly set up our sleeping bags by the pit and Ghost has joined us, demanding pets from Dany. The moment she stops he nudged her hand with his head. She complies happily, Dany is very affectionate with my dog. Who seems to adore her already.
I know the feeling.
With Ghost sleeping at our feet and Dany and I holding each other before sleep we whisper quietly in between gentle kisses.
"We should be getting back to Boulder mid-afternoon at the latest. May I take you out on a date tomorrow night?" I ask hopefully as I kiss her neck. "I'd like to take you to The Mediterranean for dinner. After, we can walk around Pearl Street if you are up for it."
"Jon, I would love to go on a date with you tomorrow. But we don't need to eat at such a fancy restaurant," Dany says firmly, stopping to look me. "I just want to spend time with you. Let's eat at Chipotle, which is also on Pearl Street."
"It's our first real date, let me spoil you," I whisper.
Dany blushes but agrees. I kiss her nose.
"We can agree that our second date will be at Chipotle, which I think should be the following night," I notify her while she giggles and nods in agreement.
I pull her into my arms tightly so we can go to sleep.
It was a rough start, but it became the start of something beautiful.
"Goodnight, Dany," I whisper.
"Goodnight, Jon," she whispers, kissing me one last time before she falls asleep in my arms.
We lie under the stars while enjoying our last night of camping.
++o+ Story End +o++
